Deadline: February 4, 2026
Are you a journalist passionate about exploring the science of complexity and deep interdisciplinary learning? The SFI Complex Systems Summer School Journalism Fellowship 2026 offers an exceptional opportunity to engage directly with leading researchers and scientists while gaining a deeper understanding of complex systems. Hosted by the Santa Fe Institute (SFI) in Santa Fe, New Mexico, USA, this fully funded fellowship places journalists within the prestigious Complex Systems Summer School (CSSS) program — a globally renowned platform for exploring the principles and applications of complexity science.
Fellowship Overview
The SFI Complex Systems Summer School Journalism Fellowship 2026 brings together two experienced journalists for a one-month immersive program that merges scientific exploration with journalism. Fellows will learn, interact, and collaborate with graduate students and researchers from around the world as they explore the science of complex systems — a field that studies how relationships between parts give rise to collective behaviors in systems across disciplines.
This fellowship provides an unparalleled opportunity for journalists to deepen their understanding of complexity science and its applications in addressing global challenges.
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: February 4, 2026
- Program Duration: June 9 – July 8, 2026
The program concludes with a self-directed week on SFI’s main campus, allowing fellows to engage with scientists, reflect on their learning, and begin developing story ideas inspired by the program.
Who Can Apply
The fellowship is open to national and international journalists who meet the following criteria:
- A minimum of seven years of professional journalism experience.
- A demonstrated interest or track record in covering science, technology, or complexity-related topics.
- A clear explanation of how participation in the program will enhance their reporting or storytelling work.
Fellowship Activities
Selected fellows will:
- Fully participate in the Complex Systems Summer School (CSSS) alongside scientists and graduate students.
- Attend lectures, engage in hands-on projects, and take part in interactive group learning.
- Spend an additional week on the Santa Fe Institute campus to conduct interviews, network with experts, and explore potential story ideas.
Through this immersive experience, journalists gain valuable insights into the methods and mindset of complexity science and how these ideas intersect with real-world issues such as ecology, economics, social dynamics, and innovation.
Fellowship Benefits
The SFI Complex Systems Summer School Journalism Fellowship 2026 is a fully funded program, covering all major expenses. Fellows will receive:
- A generous stipend for the program duration.
- Full travel reimbursement to and from Santa Fe, New Mexico.
- Free housing during the entire program and the final week on campus.
- Tuition-free participation in the Complex Systems Summer School.
- Access to leading researchers, scientists, and a global network of complexity scholars.
This support allows fellows to focus entirely on learning, engaging, and developing impactful stories without financial burden.
Application Requirements
Applicants are required to submit the following materials:
- Basic biographical information and a detailed résumé or CV.
- A statement of interest explaining professional goals and how the fellowship will contribute to their reporting.
- Five published journalism clips that demonstrate experience in science, technology, or complexity reporting.
- One letter of recommendation supporting the applicant’s experience and suitability.
Location
Santa Fe Institute (SFI), Santa Fe, New Mexico, USA.
Application Details
Interested journalists are encouraged to apply before the deadline.
🔍 Read more about the programme
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